Seacoast Spotlight Series: Big Brothers Big Sisters of NH

Piscataqua Savings Bank is the proud supporter of over 100 Seacoast area nonprofits. We’re highlighting a few of the nonprofits doing incredible, critical work in our Seacoast community with our Seacoast Spotlight Series. Next up in our spotlight is the Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire (BBBSNH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Founded in 1966, BBBSNH has been serving children and youth across the Granite State for over five decades, helping them achieve their full potential through positive, enduring relationships with caring adult mentors.

A Mission Rooted in Community

At the heart of BBBSNH’s mission is the belief that every child deserves someone in their corner. The organization focuses on building professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships that provide youth with the inspiration and confidence needed to achieve their dreams. 

These relationships not only benefit the youth but also offer parents a network of support and provide volunteers with the opportunity to make a significant impact in someone else’s life.

Diverse Mentoring Programs

BBBSNH offers a variety of mentoring programs tailored to meet the needs of different youth populations:

• Community-Based Mentoring: This traditional program matches adult mentors (“Bigs”) with youth (“Littles”) in their communities. Bigs and Littles spend quality time together participating in activities of their choosing, fostering a strong, supportive relationship.
• School/Site-Based Mentoring: In this program, mentors meet with their Littles at schools or after-school programs, providing consistent support in an educational setting. These mentoring relationships are designed for children who have been identified by teachers, counselors, or after-school staff as those who would benefit from the guidance and encouragement of a caring adult. By meeting in familiar environments, Bigs help foster confidence, connection, and academic engagement.
• BIG Adventures: This innovative program combines group mentoring and community outings to help youth build confidence, social skills, and a sense of teamwork. In partnership with local organizations, matches come together monthly for fun, staff-led activities that encourage communication, collaboration, and enrichment through shared experiences.
• PRISM: PRISM focuses on providing mentorship to youth from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and understanding through shared experiences and cultural exchange. Launched in 2019 in partnership with NH Outright, PRISM specifically supports LGBTQ+ youth by connecting them with ally mentors who offer a safe space, guidance, and encouragement.
• Bigs in Badges: This program connects youth with mentors in public service roles, such as police officers and firefighters, offering positive role models and fostering community engagement.
• Futures Ahead: Aimed at preparing high school students for life after graduation, this technology-enhanced mentoring program supports low-income and first-generation students through one-to-one guidance in career exploration, college readiness, and financial literacy. Located in a dedicated classroom at Manchester West High School, Futures Ahead pairs students with mentors starting in their first year, with weekly online check-ins and monthly in-person meetings.

The impact of BBBSNH’s mentoring programs is evident in the lives of the youth they serve. Studies have shown that youth involved in mentoring relationships experience higher educational aspirations, improved decision-making skills, and increased self-confidence. Additionally, these youth are more likely to avoid risky behaviors and succeed academically, demonstrating the transformative power of mentorship.

Getting Involved

BBBSNH invites individuals to become Bigs and make a difference in the life of a child. Volunteers are not required to be perfect, they simply need to show up and be present for their Littles. The organization provides ongoing training, coaching, and activities to ensure that mentors have the support they need to build meaningful relationships.

For those interested in supporting the organization in other ways, BBBSNH offers opportunities to donate, partner, or volunteer in various capacities. Whether through financial contributions or by sharing time and expertise, community involvement plays a crucial role in sustaining and expanding the organization’s impact.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for youth across the state. Through its diverse programs and dedicated mentors, BBBSNH is not only changing individual lives but also strengthening communities and building a brighter future for all. By investing in the potential of youth today, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow.